Hollow Knight Silksong How to Upgrade the Needle Guide
Hornet’s Needle is her core weapon in Hollow Knight Silksong, and upgrading it is essential if you want to handle tougher enemies and bosses later in Pharloom. Unlike Hollow Knight’s Nail, the Needle’s upgrades require both rare materials and the help of specific NPCs. This guide explains where to go, what you’ll need, and how each upgrade improves Hornet’s power.
Where to Upgrade the Needle
The Needle can be upgraded at special craftsmen you meet throughout Pharloom. Early in the game, you will encounter a blacksmith-type NPC after progressing past the Marrow and Deep Docks. Later upgrades are tied to quests and harder-to-reach locations.
Materials Needed
Each upgrade requires rare items in addition to Rosaries. Common materials include:
Rare ores found in hidden caverns
Quest rewards tied to NPCs like the Seamstress
Rosaries as payment
As the game progresses, the costs increase and materials become more difficult to find.
Needle Upgrade Stages
First Upgrade
Unlocked after reaching Deep Docks. Requires one rare ore and Rosaries. Increases base attack damage.
Second Upgrade
Found deeper in Far Fields or Greymoor. Requires another ore and additional Rosaries. Attack damage improves further.
Later Upgrades
Higher-level upgrades tie into quests such as the Seamstress’s cloak crafting. Some require defeating bosses or trading rare monster drops. Each upgrade continues to increase Needle power and sometimes adds extra utility.
Tips for Upgrading Quickly
Always explore side paths in each area to find hidden ores.
Complete NPC quests, since some reward upgrade materials.
Prioritize upgrading the Needle early, as higher damage shortens boss fights and makes farming safer.
Final Blurb
Upgrading the Needle in Hollow Knight Silksong is the key to surviving Pharloom’s toughest areas. By gathering rare ores, completing quests, and paying Rosaries, you can steadily boost Hornet’s damage. Stronger attacks mean faster boss kills, easier exploration, and more room to breathe during long fights.
FAQ
How many times can you upgrade the Needle?
You can upgrade it multiple times across Pharloom, each requiring rarer materials.
What materials are needed for upgrades?
Rare ores, Rosaries, and sometimes quest items tied to NPCs.
Where is the first Needle upgrade?
It becomes available after reaching Deep Docks and meeting the blacksmith NPC.
Why should I prioritize Needle upgrades?
Stronger Needle damage makes every fight faster, which reduces risk and improves your survival odds.
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